This past weekend, Mother’s Day, like many others, I found myself reflecting on the significance of my mother. For me, Saturday also happened to be the 8th anniversary of her passing.
As I reminisced about my mother, I recognized that her nature as a caring, warm, and loving person was accompanied by a tendency to be silly and playful. My mother also struggled with asserting herself when faced with disrespect. She let people walk all over her. I did not like this aspect of my mother and did not want to be like her.
What I realized this weekend is that subconsciously, I associated silliness with vulnerability and a lack of self-advocacy. Consequently, I convinced myself that being serious was the only way to garner respect.
Our upbringing plays a significant role in shaping our beliefs and self-image. As I pondered my mom’s memory, I found myself confronting this personal belief I had held onto for years. The equation I had created in my mind, connecting silliness with disrespect, had limited my ability to express myself fully.
As humans, our minds have a natural tendency to form associations and create patterns.
These mental equations help us navigate the world and make sense of our experiences. However, these equations can sometimes be flawed, limiting our perception and potential.
Recognizing the limitations imposed by false equations is a step towards personal growth. In my introspection, I realized that silliness and respect are not mutually exclusive. Being playful and lighthearted doesn’t diminish one’s worth or invite disrespect. It is entirely possible to be both silly and respected simultaneously. Embracing this newfound understanding, I am curious to see what being silly will look like for me.
We all have equations that we have unwittingly accepted as truth.
They may pertain to our appearance, abilities, or even our relationships. By challenging these false equations, we can uncover new possibilities and embrace our authentic selves. It is liberating to recognize that we are not bound by the limiting beliefs we have held onto for so long.
I invite you to take a moment and consider the equations you have created in your own mind.
What beliefs have you unknowingly adopted that may be holding you back?
Are there self-imposed limitations that prevent you from embracing your authentic self?
By exploring these questions, you can begin to dismantle false equations and open the door to new possibilities.